About this spot
From Blue Ridge Parkway, head south on Highway 215 for 6.5 miles, then after crossing a bridge turn left onto Forest Road 140 (unpaved). Alternatively from Highway 64, travel north on Highway 215 for 10.2 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 140. Follow the gravel road for approximately 3 miles past several bridges. You'll see a campground marker before the road climbs, then descends. Park on the right side just after the first bridge that crosses Courthouse Creek. A trail leads downward toward the waterfall, passing over multiple bridges and stairs. Upon reaching the waterfall, a rocky slope with large boulders appears to the right. Traverse across these rocks toward the steep face where a worn route ascends directly up. The scramble requires using roots and branches as handholds due to the severe grade. Continue climbing high across and above this rock formation, staying alert as the path is minimally marked and requires pushing through vegetation and maneuvering around trees. At elevation, a ledge with an opening becomes visible on your left—this drop-off measures approximately 60 feet or more with a difficult entry requiring navigation through trees, minimal footing, and clearing 5-10 feet outward; it sits roughly 20 feet above recorded video/photo locations. Proceed further, ascend a small rise, then descend leftward about 20 feet from the previous ledge using roots and branches to control your descent due to steepness. You now stand above the waterfall. Facing the falls, move left along the rock to an outcrop, using a nook or rope for support to complete the approach to the jump.